NTMS

Neuronavigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (nTMS) is a well-tolerated, non-invasive medical procedure with, over recent years, an increasing number of medical applications. It is of diagnostic importance in accurately identifying motor and speech areas in the brains of patients before they undergo neurosurgical operations. In addition, nTMS has multiple therapeutic applications, including the treatment of patients with depression, stroke, and phantom limb pain, whilst its use in a variety of other cerebral conditions is under investigation.

How does Robotic Targeted Electrical Neurostimulation (nTMS) work?

Navigated TMS uses a three-dimensional MRI reconstruction of the brain to accurately direct the application of a high-intensity magnetic field, in contrast to simple TMS. The special coil, which is applied to the head, produces a focused, rapidly changing magnetic field that acts on cerebral neurons. This repeated, rapid stimulation of nerve cells changes their behavior, a phenomenon known as neuromodulation.

What are the applications of nTMS?

• Before brain surgery, it identifies areas of the brain concerned with speech and movement. The neurosurgeon thus knows which areas to avoid during surgery.
• Neuromodulation is a recognized therapy for drug-resistant depression and may be used to reduce or eliminate the need for medication. A typical treatment course requires daily sessions over 6 weeks.
• In stroke patients, neuromodulation is known to improve hand paralysis and is being tried in the therapy of speech problems (dysphasia, aphasia) too. The usual treatment schedule is 3 sessions a week over a 4-week period, that is a total of 12 sessions.
• Neuromodulation is a recognized treatment for phantom limb pain.
• The use of neuromodulation in a number of other conditions, including Motor Neuron disease and obsessive-compulsive disorder, is under investigation.

Since everyone is different, nTMS treatments are strictly individualized. The advanced technology, combined with the special training of the operator, makes nTMS an intelligently adapted diagnostic and therapeutic tool.

ANAPLASI is among the few Health and Rehabilitation Centers worldwide that offer nTMS.

• nTMS sessions at ANAPLASI are carried out in accordance with international safety guidelines and based on internationally approved therapeutic protocols.
• nTMS in ANAPLASI has European and American (FDA) certification for the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
• Brain mapping and nTMS treatment at ANAPLASI are performed by internationally certified physicians.